Vacation Rentals: The Who, What, Where, And How Of It All

Nov. 16, 2007 - PRLog -- Over the last 10 years, the vacation rental industry has evolved into a multibillion dollar industry, and for good reason. More and more second home owners are renting their places out, and vacationers love the comfort of staying in private homes rather than impersonal hotel rooms.

“As large as the industry is, most people are still unaware of their options when it comes to vacationing,” said Anthony Vaarwerk, president of FindRentals.com, an Internet-based vacation rental directory. “The options of amenities are endless, and you can stay in most vacation rentals for a comparable price to hotel room rates.”

FindRentals.com answers the most-asked questions about vacation rentals:

1. What exactly is a vacation rental?

A vacation rental is a unit, such as a condo, cabin, home, or villa that is rented out to vacationers on a short term basis as an alternative to staying in a hotel.

2. Where can I find vacation rentals?

Most people opt to use the Internet in their search for the perfect rental. Web sites usually have advanced search options to make it as easy as possible to find suitable rentals and specific sections aimed at certain crowds, such as pet owners or golfers. Also, you can see photos and read detailed descriptions of rentals so that you may better qualify a home to meet your specific vacationing needs.

3. How much does it cost to rent a vacation home?

The answer to this question varies on several factors, such as amenities, length of stay, location, and time of year. Most locations have peak seasons and low seasons. Peak season is the time of year that is the most popular for that area and is more expensive, while low season is a slower time and is usually offered at a lower rate. Most vacation homes can be rented at rate similar to that of a hotel, sometimes cheaper. If you’re looking for a discounted rental, your best bet is to check out the last minute specials or discounted rentals sections on vacation rental Web sites.

4. What is the procedure for renting a home?

Once you’ve found the perfect place online, there is usually an option to send an inquiry to the owner and/or reservation information. If they have a phone number listed, go ahead and call them! This is the best way to get instant answers to any questions you may have. After you determine when you’ll stay and how much it will cost, it’s time to make a deposit towards your rent. Most of the time, owners will hold a deposit for incidentals that is refundable at the end of your term. Owners usually prefer that you send a check or money order a few weeks prior to your stay to solidify your reservation.

5. What if I want to stay in a professionally managed property?

Property managers, more often than not, will advertise their individual properties on vacation rental Web sites. Some sites, like FindRentals.com, have separate sections like FindVacatonRentalManagers.com dedicated to a professionally managed rental experience. You can also find property managers through the Vacation Rental Managers Association.

For more information, contact Melissa Whipkey at 716-840-3366 or visit FindRentals.com.

Website: www.FindRentals.com